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Sending your child off to college is a big transition, and not just for them. It's a whole new chapter for us as parents, too. In this episode of The Next ChaptHER, I'm joined by my friend Shane Shaps, founder of Big Voice Social and co-host of The Social Dialogue podcast with her daughter Jenna, for an honest conversation about what happens when our kids start building lives of their own. We're talking about letting go without checking out, navigating Life360 and those one-word text responses, surviving college-parent Facebook groups, handling emotional phone calls, and figuring out when to step in and when to let our kids figure things out themselves. Shane has one child in college and another navigating post-college life, while I'm just beginning this transition with my college freshman. Two moms, two different stages, and plenty of laughs and real-life experiences as we figure out how to move from being the CEO of our kids' lives to taking a seat on their advisory board. Because our kids aren't the only ones learning to navigate this next chapter. We are, too. Connect with Shane Shaps: Big Voice Social: https://bigvoicesocial.com/ The Social Dialogue Podcast: https://bigvoicesocial.com/podcast/ Connect with Andrea: Fully Informed Life Coaching: https://fullyinformedlife.com Enjoyed the episode? Leave a review at https://ratethispodcast.com/thenextchapter

Color as a Clarity Tool: Simplify Your Closet, Shopping & Everyday Decisions Have you ever put on a color and instantly felt brighter, more confident, and more like yourself? Or bought something you loved in the store only to have it sit untouched in your closet? In this episode of The Next ChaptHER, Andrea sits down with Judy Lee, founder of Huephoric Color Analysis, to talk about why color analysis is about so much more than figuring out whether you’re a summer or an autumn. Judy shares how understanding your colors can reduce decision fatigue, make shopping easier and more intentional, and help you feel more confident in how you show up—especially during seasons of change. They also talk about why black isn’t necessarily everyone’s best neutral, how color can influence how we feel and communicate, and simple ways to start using color with more intention. Connect with Judy: Website: Huephoric Color Analysis Instagram: @huephoric.co Connect with Andrea: Website: Fully Informed Life Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Next ChaptHER and share it with someone who might be ready to look at their closet—and themselves—a little differently.

Lately, you might be noticing small things… You’re asking people to repeat themselves. Restaurants feel louder than they used to. You leave conversations feeling more drained than connected. Or maybe there’s a subtle ringing, buzzing, or just an “off” feeling you can’t quite explain. And you’re wondering… Is this just normal? Or is something actually going on? In this episode, I’m joined by my longtime friend and audiologist, Dr. Rhee Nesson of Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, to talk about something we don’t often connect to this chapter of life: hearing health. It’s about understanding the subtle shifts happening in your body and knowing what to do next. We talk about: Why hearing changes are often so gradual you don’t notice them at first The connection between hearing, brain health, and mental load How perimenopause and menopause can show up in ways like ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or sensitivity to noise Why feeling overwhelmed or exhausted in social settings might not just be “in your head” The emotional side of it — confidence, connection, and how you show up in conversations What it actually looks like to get a baseline and be proactive without spiraling Because this isn’t just about hearing. It’s about how you move through your life. How you connect with people. How you feel in your own body. And if something feels off, you don’t have to ignore it. Resources + Connect with Dr. Rhee Nesson If you’re experiencing ringing, buzzing, or changes in your hearing, this is a helpful place to start: https://hearingdoctorsofnj.com/tinnitus-during-menopause-what-women-need-to-know/ For more comprehensive tinnitus support and treatment options: https://tinnitusdoctorsofnj.com/ Explore hearing health resources or schedule an evaluation with Dr. Rhee Nesson and her team at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey: https://hearingdoctorsofnj.com/ Follow along on Social: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearingdoctorsofnj/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearingdoctorsofnj/   If this resonated… If you’re noticing changes — physically, emotionally, or just that sense of “something feels different” — this is exactly the space I support women through. Not just what is happening… but how to process it, understand it, and move forward without feeling stuck in it. Because sometimes it’s not one big thing. It’s a lot of small shifts happening all at once. And having someone to talk it through with changes everything. Learn more about working together: https://www.fullyinformedlife.com Stay connected + continue the conversation Read more reflections from this past year on Substack: https://thenextchapther.substack.com/ Follow along on Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching Listen wherever you get your podcasts. And as you listen, just notice: What have I been brushing off that might actually be worth paying attention to?

One year ago, I was sitting in a parking lot when I got the call that would change my life. But this episode isn’t just about that moment. It’s about what happens after. What a year like that teaches you. And why this conversation matters even if you haven’t faced a diagnosis like mine. Because most of us will go through a year that changes us. A year where life splits into before and after. A year where something happens that we didn’t plan, didn’t want, and didn’t see coming. In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on the past year and sharing the questions I’ve been asking myself: What do I know now that I wish I had known then? What does the one-year mark actually mean? What did I get wrong about how hard this would be? And what does it look like to keep living while going through something hard? I talk about the part no one really sees. The invisible part. The part where you look fine on the outside but are carrying so much on the inside. And I share what actually helped me navigate this messy middle. Not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too. This episode is not just about cancer. It’s about identity, resilience, community, and what it means to move through something hard and still find yourself on the other side. If This Episode Resonated: If you’re in your own version of a messy middle right now, you’re not alone. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to keep moving forward. Connect + Continue the Conversation: Read more reflections from this past year on Substack: https://thenextchapther.substack.com/ Follow along on Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching Learn more about working together: https://www.fullyinformedlife.com

Episode Title: Perimenopause, Menopause, and the Chapter No One Prepared Us For In this episode, Andrea sits down with menopause coach Susie Weinberg to talk about perimenopause and menopause, a stage of life that affects almost every woman, yet many still feel confused and alone when it begins. They talk about common symptoms many women don’t realize are hormone-related, the frustration of being told “everything is normal,” the emotional impact of this stage of life, and why support and self-advocacy are so important. This conversation is about more than hormones. It’s about identity, relationships, confidence, and learning how to navigate this chapter with more information, support, and compassion for yourself. Resources Mentioned: https://menopause.org/ https://www.letstalkmenopause.org/ Connect with Susie Weinberg: Website: www.susieweinbergmenopausecoach.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susiemenopausecoach Connect with Andrea: Website: https://www.fullyinformedlife.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullyinformedlifecoaching Substack: https://substack.com/@thenextchapther

In this episode of The Next ChaptHER Podcast, Andrea sits down with Dr. Andrea Hogan — known to her students as “Dr. Dre” — for a powerful conversation about losing your voice without losing it physically. Together, they explore coercive control, what it looks like beyond physical abuse, and how identity can slowly erode through gaslighting, power imbalances, and survival mode. Dr. Dre shares her personal journey of recognizing coercive control, navigating mental health recovery, and reclaiming authorship of her life. This conversation also turns toward rebuilding — letting new things in, rediscovering joy, finding community, and stepping into advocacy and purpose. In This Episode We Discuss: What coercive control is and why it’s often invisible How women lose their voice and sense of self over time Mental health recovery and removing stigma around seeking help Post-traumatic growth and reclaiming authorship Finding identity and joy beyond survival Connect with Dr. Andrea Hogan LinkedIn: Andrea Hogan, PhD Instagram: @thegolfingprofessor TikTok: @dreahogan329 YouTube: @TheGolfingProfessor Book: Lucky Lion (available on Amazon) Domestic Abuse Advocacy Resource: https://www.crystalfedeli.com/ Connect with Andrea Hecht & The Next ChaptHER Host: Andrea Hecht Certified Professional Life Coach | Fully Informed Life Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching Podcast: The Next ChaptHER Substack: The Next ChaptHER Website: https://fullyinformedlife.com If this episode resonated with you, share it with another woman who may need language, validation, and hope for her next chapter.

Sometimes life hands you a moment where everything shifts. In this episode of The Next ChaptHER, Andrea Hecht sits down with Amy Schwartz, founder of F**k It Inc., to talk about what “f**k it” really means — not giving up or being reckless, but choosing yourself when life feels out of control. Amy shares how her personal “f**k it” mantra was born when her life shifted unexpectedly and what it’s taught her about choice, boundaries, and living fully. Andrea also reflects on her own “f**k it” moment during her breast cancer experience, and why this conversation resonates far beyond health crises. This episode is for any woman navigating a curveball, an identity shift, burnout, caregiving, loss, or the messy middle of real life. In This Episode, We Talk About What “f**k it” really means (and what it doesn’t) Choosing joy while still grieving what could have been Reclaiming choice when life feels out of control Boundaries, saying no, and protecting your sanity Why choosing yourself doesn’t require permission About the Guest Amy Schwartz is the founder of F**k It Inc., a jewelry and lifestyle brand turned movement — created as a reminder to keep living fully, even when life doesn’t go according to plan. Website: https://www.fuckitinc.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fckit.inc About the Host Andrea Hecht is a Certified Professional Life Coach & Well-being Specialist and the founder of Fully Informed Life. Through her coaching and The Next ChaptHER podcast, Andrea helps women reconnect with themselves and find their Roadmap Back to J.O.Y. (Journey of You) — especially in life’s messy middle. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullyinformedlifecoaching Learn more: https://www.fullyinformedlife.com

Most women in their 40s and 50s don’t think about long-term care—until they’re suddenly forced to. In this episode of The Next ChaptHER Podcast, Andrea Hecht sits down with Suzanne Scheer, J.D., CLTC®, to unpack what long-term care actually is, why it matters, and why waiting until a crisis hits can leave families overwhelmed—emotionally, logistically, and financially. Suzanne’s passion for this work is deeply personal. As part of the sandwich generation, she spent years caring for her parents through extended illnesses while raising her own young child. That experience opened her eyes to what families go through when there isn’t a clear plan in place—and why education before a crisis is so critical. Together, Andrea and Suzanne break down long-term care in simple, human language—without fear-mongering or pressure—so women can make informed decisions that protect both their future selves and the people they love. In This Episode, We Cover: What long-term care really means (and what it does not) Why Medicare and health insurance don’t cover custodial care Common misconceptions that keep women from planning ahead Why long-term care isn’t just about aging—it can happen at any age The different types of care: home care, assisted living, memory care, and more Traditional long-term care insurance vs. newer hybrid/asset-based options How health history and timing affect eligibility Why planning ahead gives you choice—not panic How proactive planning can reduce emotional and financial strain on families Key Takeaways: Long-term care covers custodial care—help with daily activities—not medical treatment Medicare offers only limited, short-term rehab coverage Planning earlier often means more flexibility, better options, and less stress Newer long-term care products can provide value even if care is never needed The goal isn’t just financial protection—it’s dignity, autonomy, and family peace About the Guest: Suzanne Scheer, J.D., CLTC® is a long-term care specialist who helps individuals and families plan proactively—before they’re in crisis. She is known for her clear, compassionate approach and specializes exclusively in long-term care education and planning. 🔗 Website: https://www.sgsinsurance.net 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannescheer/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzannescheer_jd_cltc/ 💻 Upcoming Webinar: “Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance” will be on February 19th at Noon EST.  Registration link:  https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tcs5Y0ZIRgaHWVlFbwbYkw Resources Mentioned in This Episode: The Shopper’s Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/publication-ltc-lp-shoppers-guide-long-term.pdf Ready for Your Next ChaptHER? To learn more about Andrea’s work supporting women through transitions and helping them find their roadmap back to J.O.Y. (Journey of You), visit fullyinformedlife.com. Continue the conversation with Andrea on Instagram @fullyinformedlifecoaching. 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss what’s next on your favorite podcast app. ⭐ Leave a review if this episode resonated. It helps more women find The Next ChaptHER Https://www.ratethispodcast.com/thenextchapther Until next time, keep writing your next chapter.

Before we step into the rush of December — the events, expectations, emotions, and everything extra — this episode invites you to slow down and take a breath. Today, Andrea walks you through one of the most clarity-creating exercises she uses with clients and inside her Circle groups: choosing a feeling you want to protect and then using your camera roll or calendar as a truth-telling inventory to understand what supports that feeling… and what drains it. This isn’t about resolutions, reinventions, or “new year, new me.” It’s about recognizing a feeling that already lives in you — even if it shows up inconsistently — and learning how to protect it as you move into your next chapter. Inside this episode, Andrea shares: Why choosing one anchor feeling is far more powerful than setting a dozen goals How your camera roll and calendar reveal the real story of your year The three buckets that help you see your wins, your drains, and your clues How patterns point directly to what needs to be protected, released, or re-aligned Why boundaries hide in your calendar How Andrea’s own year — including breast cancer, recovery, healing, recalibration — led her to choose strength as her feeling to protect This episode is part grounding, part practical exercise, and part invitation to choose differently before January arrives. What You’ll Learn How to identify the feeling that anchors you What your camera roll and planner reveal about your lived experience How to gather data about your life without judgment How small smile moments and forgotten wins show you what supports you Why repeated drains show you exactly where boundaries are needed A simple, powerful framework to step into December with intention Try the Exercise for Yourself Download the step-by-step reflection guide here. If This Episode Helped… Share it with a friend who might need a moment of clarity before the holidays hit. You never know who needs an anchor feeling right now. Connect Learn more about coaching or the Roadmap Back to J.O.Y. program: FullyInformedLife.com Follow Andrea on Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching @thenextchaptHER

There are moments in life that stop you cold — the ones you didn’t schedule, didn’t plan for, and definitely didn’t see coming. The kinds of moments that crack you open and force you to see yourself, your life, and your inner voice through an entirely different lens. In today’s episode, I’m joined by USA Today bestselling author Cara Lockwood, whose newest book, There’s No Good Book for This (But I Wrote One Anyway), brings humor and raw honesty to the chapter of her life that changed everything: her breast cancer journey. But our conversation goes far beyond illness. This episode is about mindset, self-talk, and the negative playlist so many women carry without even realizing it. It’s about what happens when life throws a curveball big enough to make you finally hear that inner soundtrack — and the turning point that comes when you decide to rewrite it. Cara and I dive into reframing old narratives, challenging the stories we’ve absorbed over the years, why asking for help is actually a strength, and what it means to take back control of the pen as you write your next chapter. Whether you’re currently navigating a heavy season or simply feeling stretched thin, this conversation is your reminder that you are stronger than you think… and you deserve the same grace you so freely give to everyone else. Resources Mentioned Rewrite Your Inner Soundtrack (Free Guide): https://fullyinformedlifecoaching.myflodesk.com/hitplayonjoy Cara Lockwood: Website: https://nogoodbookforthis.com/ Instagram: @cara.the.author | @cara_lockwood Connect with Andrea Instagram: @fullyinformedlifecoaching @thenextchapther Follow my writing + life’s curveball journey on Substack: https://substack.com/@thenextchapther Explore coaching and resources: https://fullyinformedlife.com

The past few weeks have been full of “full-circle” moments for me — from hosting my very first Next ChaptHER Connect event, Courage & Caramels, to speaking at a Pink Babka Bake in front of the most incredible group of women. Both experiences reminded me what this community is truly about: connection, conversation, and choosing happiness even when life feels sticky. In this heartfelt episode, I share the reflections, mindset shifts, and stories from both events, including what I’ve learned throughout my seven-month breast cancer journey about how to stay grounded, use humor and gratitude to heal, and reach for those rose-colored glasses even when they’re foggy. If you’re walking through something hard or just trying to find your footing again, this episode is for you. You’ll hear how small mindset shifts, community, and a willingness to laugh (even in the hospital gown moments) can help you rediscover your strength and your joy. 🌸 In This Episode, We’ll Talk About: The real story behind Courage & Caramels and what inspired it How humor and gratitude became my healing tools Why “being strong” doesn’t mean pretending everything’s fine How to keep your brain “online” when life feels chaotic The power of faith, friendship, and letting yourself be seen How to ask for — and receive — help without guilt Why misery and happiness are both choices The role the community plays in helping us find joy again 💬 One Takeaway to Remember: “Even when life gets sticky, there’s always sweetness if you’re willing to look for it.” ✨ Connect & Continue the Conversation If today’s episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another woman who might need this reminder. You can also connect with me on Instagram @fullyinformedlifecoaching or @thenextchapther and visit www.fullyinformedlife.com to learn more about working together and finding your roadmap back to J.O.Y. — The Journey of You.

It’s been a season of slowing down and healing after my reconstruction surgery on October 6th, and at my recent follow-up, my doctors said the words “you’re healing beautifully.” Those words instantly lifted my spirits and reminded me how much happiness comes from choosing to notice the good, even in the messy middle. So this week, I’m replaying one of my very first and most joyful conversations — my chat with Samantha Kestin, the creative heart behind Sweet Samantha. Samantha lives by her grandfather’s advice: “When you love what you do, you never work a day in your life.” In this episode, we talk about what it really means to find happiness, create sweetness, and keep following the road back to joy. It feels extra special to revisit this one because Samantha is joining me today for my first live Next ChaptHER Connect event — Courage & Caramels: Finding Happiness Even When Life Feels Sticky. Together we explore: 💗 What happiness looks like when life doesn’t go as planned 🍬 How creativity and kindness can shift your mindset 💫 The courage it takes to choose joy — one sweet step at a time 💕 Connect with Samantha Kestin Website: www.sweet-samantha.com Instagram: @sweetsamcakes ✨ Connect with Andrea Hecht If you’re ready to start writing your next chapter, visit www.fullyinformedlife.com to schedule your complimentary discovery session. Follow on Instagram → @fullyinformedlifecoaching and @thenextchapther Subscribe on Apple | Spotify | Google — and if this replay inspires you, please rate, review, and share The Next ChaptHER Podcast.

Have you ever stayed in a relationship hoping it would get better — even as that little voice inside told you something was off? You’re not alone. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, my guest shares her story anonymously to protect her privacy — but it could just as easily be any of ours. She’s smart, successful, and like so many women, she found herself in a relationship that looked like love but was actually built on control and manipulation. This conversation goes beyond one person’s experience. Together, we explore: The subtle red flags that often get ignored — and why The impact of toxic relationships on self-worth, family, and children How to establish and enforce boundaries, even when it feels uncomfortable Practical steps to take when you’re ready to leave — emotionally, physically, and legally The journey of reclaiming your strength, trusting your intuition, and embracing the freedom that follows If you’ve ever ignored a red flag, stayed longer than you should have, or questioned your worth in a relationship — this episode will remind you that you’re not broken, you’re not alone, and there is a way forward. Resources & Support If this conversation resonated with you and you need support, these resources can help: Center for Relationship Abuse Awareness & Action – Education and resources for understanding relationship abuse Safe Horizon – Emotional Abuse – Support and guidance for those experiencing emotional abuse National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for 24/7 confidential support 🙌 Let’s Stay Connected Love this episode? Here’s how you can support the show and continue the conversation: Subscribe to stay up-to-date on what’s next. Leave a review – your words help other women find their own roadmap back to J.O.Y. Submit your review at ratethispodcast.com/thenextchapther Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it today. 💻 Ready for more support? Visit fullyinformedlife.com to learn how we can work together.

This week on The Next ChaptHER Podcast, I sit down with Pam Lamp, author of Do the Next New Thing, for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about what it really means to step into the unknown and create your next chapter. This episode is extra special—it’s my first guest conversation back since my breast cancer diagnosis. Pam’s story felt like the perfect way to return. Her journey began in a season of uncertainty—relocating to a new city, feeling isolated, and wondering what’s next? Instead of staying stuck, she committed to doing one new thing every single day. What started as small daily steps turned into a transformative project that shifted her mindset, created connection, and sparked a book, blog, and podcast of her own. In this episode, we talk about: ✨ Why so many of us feel “frozen” when asking what’s next?—and how to unstick yourself ✨ The power of small, intentional daily actions and how they rewire your brain ✨ Practical ideas for starting your own “next new thing” list (without breaking the bank) ✨ How letting go of perfection and outcome opens the door to fun, growth, and connection ✨ Pam’s surprising stories (including her unforgettable police ride-along!) ✨ Why your happiness and purpose don’t always have to be tied to a paycheck Whether you’re navigating a life change, searching for purpose, or simply craving something new, Pam’s story will remind you that your next chapter starts with just one small step. 📖 Learn more about Pam and grab a copy of Do the Next New Thing 🎧 Check out her podcast Who I Met Today. 📲 Connect with Pam on Instagram @pamelalamp2. 👉 After listening, I’d love to hear from you—what’s YOUR “next new thing”? Tag me on Instagram @fullyinformedlifecoaching and let me know!

In this episode of the Next Chapter Podcast, I share a personal story about a seemingly small moment—trying on bathing suits for my 20th wedding anniversary trip to the beach—that turned out to be a profound reminder about the power of showing up. It’s not about the bathing suit or how we look, but how we choose to feel in the moments that matter. I dive into how self-doubt and mental chatter can cloud our choices, but how mindset work can help us decide how we want to feel and what we want to embrace. If you’ve ever found yourself avoiding something you used to love because of how you think you look, this episode is for you. It’s a conversation about feeling present, reconnecting with who we are, and stepping into the next chapter of our lives with confidence, no matter where we’re at. Resources Mentioned: Substack: Read more about my Bathing Suit Moment and reflections on feeling like yourself in the current chapter.  Lifestyle & Mindset Assessment: A tool to help you reconnect with how you want to feel mentally, emotionally, and energetically.  Action Steps: Ask yourself: How do I want to feel, not how do I look? If you’ve been avoiding something you used to love, I challenge you to take the first step towards showing up—whether it’s a bathing suit, a pair of jeans, or something else. Remember, you don’t have to wait for perfect—just show up as you. Let’s Connect: Website: https://fullyinformedlife.com/ Social Media: @fullyinformedlifecoaching  If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need this reminder to not feel alone in their own journey. Let’s continue to show up and choose how we want to feel!